By Nyang’au Araka and Courtesy/ MCK
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) is strengthening global media collaborations to support sector growth and institutional resilience.
Ahead of the upcoming Pan-African Media Summit, MCK held talks with representatives of the French Embassy in Kenya aimed at deepening international cooperation in media development and strategic partnerships.
The discussions focused on capacity building, ethical innovation, and institutional strengthening within the media sector, as Kenya prepares to host media leaders from across the continent.
MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo underscored the importance of structured international collaboration in enhancing media institutions and building sector resilience.
“As we prepare for the Pan-African Media Summit, we see a significant opportunity to deepen collaboration that supports capacity building, ethical innovation, and sustainable media development across the continent,” he said.
Mr Omwoyo, who also serves as Chairperson of the East African Press Councils (EAPC) and President of the World Association of Press Councils (WAPC), highlighted key MCK initiatives as potential avenues for strategic cooperation.
These include partnerships with 67 media houses through the Council’s internship programme and the establishment of 11 media hubs nationwide.
“Strengthening these initiatives through international collaboration can significantly enhance their impact and expand regional engagement,” he added.
He further stressed the need for robust infrastructure to support continental media collaboration, noting that a dedicated media centre during the Summit would be crucial for promoting engagement, dialogue, innovation, and professional exchange among African journalists and media leaders.
The Political and Press Counsellor (Head of Communications) at the French Embassy in Kenya, Romain Boyer, welcomed the engagement and reaffirmed France’s commitment to meaningful partnerships across Africa.
“France is keen to build mutually beneficial relationships with African institutions, particularly in areas that promote press freedom, innovation, and professional standards in journalism,” he said.
Mr Boyer described the Pan-African Media Summit as a valuable platform for dialogue and exchange, expressing interest in exploring ways France’s cooperation could strengthen professional networks and continental media collaboration.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to sustained engagement aimed at enhancing media resilience, ethical governance, and innovation in Kenya and across Africa.
